McCurdy wins AWGA Stroke Play; Johnson third

FAYETTEVILLE — University of Arkansas junior Amanda McCurdy continued her solid summer season winning the 22nd Annual Arkansas Women’s Golf Association Stroke Play Championship at Stonebridge Meadows Country Club.

McCurdy, an El Dorado, Ark., native, won the event with a 213 (70-72-71) including a chip in on 18 for an eagle. Teammate Gena Johnson of Hot Springs, Ark., also competed in the event finishing third overall with a 224 (77-73-74).

"I’m very proud of both of them," said head coach Kelley Hester who was on hand to cheer them on. "Amanda hasn’t played much this summer and it’s great for her to be able to pick up the clubs and get back into it. She and Cort (Courtney Mahon) leave Friday for the UA Amateur and that will be great competition as well."

McCurdy has emerged as one of the best golfers in Lady Razorback history. Just the second individual winner for the Lady’Backs, McCurdy became the team’s first-ever Southeastern Conference Golfer of the Week, the first GolfWorld Golfer of the Week and the first Lady’Back to earn all-SEC honors. In addition, she holds Arkansas records for lowest round (68), lowest three-round total (216) and lowest stroke average for a season (74.85) and career (76.23).

Tanna Lee Richard finished second in the event with a 223, followed by Johnson’s 224. Two-time defending champion Julie Oxendine was fourth at 229 and Elizabeth Wells rounded out the top five at 235.

"Gena has had good summer as well," added Hester. "The entire team has really stepped up and played well and I’m excited to see what we can do when we all come together this fall."

For more information about Arkansas golf, log on to www.ladybacks.com.